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What is Tongue Thrust?

Tongue thrust is a muscle pattern, identified by the tongue pushing forward or sideways through the teeth while swallowing or speaking. Nearly all infants display tongue protrusion, but it is lost around six months of age. If this behavior continues, it can result in dental and speech developmental issues (known as Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder, or OMD).
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Treatment for Tongue Thrust and OMD

In the past, treatment for tongue thrust focused on blocking the tongue’s movement during swallowing. These ‘habit appliances’ (cribs, rakes, spikes) made eating and speaking difficult, and prevented correct positioning of the orofacial muscles while at rest. It was believed that tongue thrust was the cause of crooked teeth or other malocclusion, but we know that it is one of many symptoms of a greater orofacial muscle issue.

Now, treatment for Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder is a collaborative process that involves behavioral retraining, neuromuscular exercises, and speech pathology therapy. Our therapists can help identify open bite/overjet, breathing obstructions, tongue ties, and other barriers from achieving correct Oral Rest Posture. Treatment in children also includes eliminating bad oral habits in children such as prolonged thumb or pacifier sucking, and bottle use.

The Silverstrom Group offers tongue thrust and Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, focusing on Proper Oral Rest Posture. This is vital to the healthy growth and development of teeth and airways, and to rehabilitating tongue thrust and the larger, underlying issue of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder.

Learn More About Tongue Thrust and OMD

Want to read more about Tongue Thrust? Are you looking for the best dental office with experience treating tongue thrust and providing OMD therapy near you?

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24/7 service. Same Day Appointments are Available.
The Silverstrom Group, conveniently located in Livingston, New Jersey, proudly serves patients from Essex, Union, and Morris Counties including Millburn, Short Hills, Summit, West Orange, Chatham, Madison, Florham Park, Maplewood and all surrounding communities and towns.

We also serve patients from New York City, and the entire United States.

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580 S Livingston Ave Livingston, NJ 07039

Mon: 8:00am – 8:00pm
Tue: 8:00am – 8:00pm
Wed: 8:00am – 8:00pm
Thu: 8:00am – 8:00pm
Fri: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Sat: 8:00am – 1:00pm
Sun: closed